You may be familiar with the Latin phrase, “caveat emptor,” or “let the buyer beware.”  This is an expression in commerce that basically means that they buyer is taking on the risk of purchase, without warranty.  In today’s condo

By Paul Dincin and Richard Rappold Court-appointed receivership has emerged as the method of choice to manage and protect distressed property during a foreclosure. During the 18 months it can take for a final judgement of foreclosure to be

By Joseph McBreen New construction financing is available with all the standard conventional, jumbo and government loan programs. With a single family home or a detached townhome or PUD, there are no specific guidelines, which can create a problem

We have heard for years how the city of Chicago is going to streamline the permit process. If this is ever to happen, it would be very good for job creation. As it stands, many investors and developers have

Not everyone has that “social butterfly” personality. Real estate agents are expected, however, to possess some special over-the-top customer service personality that woos customers and closes deals by the mere smile on their face. The secret to success in

Have you ever had days, weeks or even months go by when you were frustrated in your work activities because you failed to implement the things that you know you need to do in order to be more successful?

By Greg Viti One of my pet peeves in real estate is how difficult it can be to get a showing confirmed.  Everyone has their particular way they want to be contacted.  Some only email, others text or they

The anti-predatory lending database program, also known as SB1167 went into effect on July 1 of 2008. The purpose of the program, according to the state of IL on the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation (IDFPR) website,

The Law of the Gate Keeper states: the business professional that refers out the most business will create the most reciprocal referral relationships in return. Translation: the business professional who controls the lead

By Bob Corcoran If you’re looking to make this a more productive year, you’re in the right place. Keep

We are in an ever-changing industry right now, which you can actually experience on a daily basis. Selling real estate will never be the way it used to be, and savvy agents know this and are adapting accordingly. If

I hear over and over again from Realtors that there aren’t any jumbo products out there anymore.  We need to forget the past and focus on 2011.  There are a plethora of jumbo loan programs available to potential buyers,

By Greg Viti Are you considering buying/owning an investment property or building a portfolio of multi-unit/ mixed use properties? We have all heard of people and partnerships making great appreciation and building wealth through ownership. I am sure most

By Greg Viti In my opinion there is no better way to give and get business than a solid referral from a past client, friend or fellow Realtor. Over the years I have had an opportunity to enjoy many

By Greg Viti Construction is not magic! Then again sometimes the end result does appear that way. A well thought out plan with great execution is the goal. Keeping within a budget is important- however using the right materials

What is holding you back from obtaining some of your biggest dreams and goals? If you look real close at your actions, thoughts and written goals, it usually comes down to us. Most achievement happens when we decide we